External speech processor unit for an auditory prosthesis

Abstract

A speech processor unit (12) for a cochlear implant system. The speech processor unit (12) comprises a signal processor for processing incoming auditory signals and for forwarding processed signals to an implanted component (18) of the system, a monitoring means for monitoring a predetermined parameter, and a controller, controlled by the signal processor, for placing the unit in an idle state in the absence of the parameter. The predetermined parameter can comprise the presence or absence of the implanted receiver antenna coil (22) relative to the external antenna coil (16). The invention allows the speech processor unit (12) to be supplied without a physical on and off switch.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority from Provisional Patent Application No 2003905570 filed on Oct. 13, 2003, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates to a speech processor unit for an auditory prosthesis. More particularly, the invention relates to an external speech processor unit for a cochlear implant system.[0004]2. Related Art[0005]Hearing loss, which may be due to many different causes, is generally of two types, conductive and sensorineural. In some cases, a person may have hearing loss of both types. Conductive hearing loss occurs when the normal mechanical pathways for sound to reach the hair cells in the cochlea are impeded, for example, by damage to the ossicles. Conductive hearing loss is often helped by use of conventional hearing aids which amplify sound so that acoustic information reaches the cochlea and the hair cells.[0006]In many...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0028]The unit may further include a memory and a battery supply for supplying power to the unit. To reduce power consumption of the unit, the signal processor (which may be a digital signal processor), the data encoder / formatter and the memory may be implemented by way of CMOS circuitry.

Problems solved by technology

In some cases, a person may have hearing loss of both types.

Conductive hearing loss occurs when the normal mechanical pathways for sound to reach the hair cells in the cochlea are impeded, for example, by damage to the ossicles.

In many people who are profoundly deaf, however, the reason for their deafness is sensorineural hearing loss.

These people are thus unable to derive suitable benefit from conventional hearing aid systems, no matter how loud the acoustic stimulus is made, because there is damage to, or absence of, the mechanism for nerve impulses to be generated from sound in the normal manner.

Such a switch is typically small in size and difficult to manipulate, especially in the case of elderly recipients or those who are not very dexterous.

Continuous use of the switch causes mechanical fatigue resulting in the switch failing to operate and requiring repair or replacement.

A further problem with BTE devices of current designs is that the area around the switch permits the ingress of moisture that can damage or destroy the device.

In such circumstances, the digital signal processor may disable the bias circuit causing the preamplifier and ADC module to enter a low power state.

In the absence of motion, the switch may cause the unit to enter an idle state.

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